The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites all residents and visitors to attend the annual commemoration of POW/MIA Remembrance Day on the steps of the Union County Courthouse at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth on Friday, September 15, 2023 at 11:00 a.m.
“We gather each year to raise the POW/MIA flag to remember those Americans throughout the history of our nation, who were prisoners of war and those who are missing in action and ensure they are never forgotten,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “This day is a moment to pause and reflect on the personal sacrifices made by these men and women, as well as their families, and I ask that you join us in honoring these heroic individuals at this important flag raising.”
The ceremony features an introduction by Union County Manager Edward Oatman, and Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados as the master of ceremonies. An invocation will be led by Union County Commander, VFW Bobby Jeans.
This year’s guest speaker will be Colonel Dennis J. Dougherty, First Region President Emeritus at the Association of the United States Army. Colonel Dougherty retired a decorated veteran from his 31-year military career with the United States Army and the New Jersey Army National Guard in 2000. Concurrently, Col. Dougherty enjoyed a 39-year career as an educator in Union County before retiring in 2007. During his academic career, he also served as a mentor, supervisor, and notably, developed and implemented a Peer Leadership program to assist first year high school students in meeting the demands of high school.
“We especially encourage all veterans and their families to join us as we remember the bravest of the brave; our brothers and sisters of service that were lost, imprisoned, or never made it home,” said Commissioner Alexander Mirabella, Liaison to the Veteran’s Affairs Committee.
The presentation of colors will be performed by Honor Guards from the Union County Sheriff Office, Union County Prosecutor’s Office, Elizabeth Police and Fire Honor Guard and the ceremony will include a rifle salute, TAPS and the singing of the National Anthem.
For more information, please call Geoff Smith with the Office of Veteran’s Services at 908-527-4918.
At tonight’s meeting, the Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly presented resolutions congratulating three exceptional schools from Union County that have achieved remarkable recognition in the latest rankings by U.S. News & World Report. These prestigious rankings, released last week, have placed Union County at the forefront of the nation’s best high schools.
“We are incredibly thrilled by the extraordinary achievements of our Union County Vocational-Technical Schools, and are even more proud to acknowledge the exceptional students whose remarkable academic performances have paved the way for these rankings,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “This accomplishment stands as a resounding testament to the dedication of our educators and the endless potential within their students. I would like to thank the Superintendent, Principals, and every single member of their devoted teachers and staff, who remain steadfast in their commitment to delivering a world-class education that empowers our Union County students to reach unparalleled heights of success.”
Out of a staggering 18,000 eligible schools across all 50 states and the District of Columbia, Union County has three of its public high schools have secured places in the coveted top 100 list of the best high schools in the United States. In a remarkable feat, one of these schools has claimed the coveted top position statewide.
“As a big supporter of Union County Vocational-Technical Schools, I am proud to witness the outstanding achievements of these three exceptional Union County high schools, securing their rightful places in the top 100 list of the best high schools in the United States,” said Senate President Nicholas Scutari. “This recognition serves as a powerful reminder as to why I worked hard to secure the awarded $33 million earlier this summer to expand this institution further. I applaud the hard work, vision, and commitment of our entire educational community who have contributed to this outstanding achievement, and I look forward to watching your journey towards educational excellence continue.”
The U.S. News & World Report’s rankings take into account a variety of essential factors that reflect the overall quality and excellence of high schools, including college readiness, state assessment proficiency, state assessment performance, underserved student performance, college curriculum breadth, and graduation rate. It is a testament to the dedication and hard work of Union County’s educators, administrators, students, and their families that our schools have excelled in these key areas.
Here are the three Union County high schools that have earned their place in the top 100 nationally:
Union County Magnet High School in Scotch Plains: Securing an impressive rank of #1 in New Jersey and #26 in the nation, this remarkable achievement showcases Union County’s commitment to providing exceptional educational opportunities for its students.
Academy for Information Technology in Scotch Plains: With a commendable national rank of #122 and ranking at #9 in New Jersey, Academy for Information Technology has reaffirmed its dedication to academic excellence and innovation.
Academy for Allied Health Sciences in Scotch Plains: Ranking at #10 in New Jersey and placing at #230 nationally, the Academy for Allied Health Sciences continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing outstanding educational experiences for its students.
“It’s an incredible thing to see all five of our career academies in the top schools in New Jersey and in the Nation. To have three in the top ten in the State, with a number one ranking, speaks tremendously of the work of our students and staff here at the Union County Vocational-Technical Schools,” said Ms. Gwendolyn Ryan, Superintendent of Schools. “Everything that we do is centered around career and technical education, giving students a combination of rigorous academics, work-based learning experiences, access to college credits, and partnerships with local businesses and industries. In fact two of our schools spend their entire final year at Kean University, as both high school seniors and college freshman. We couldn’t be more proud of our placement in these rankings, and of the many accomplishments of our students!”
It is worth mentioning that the Union County Vo-Tech High School (UCTECH) and Academy for Performing Arts (APA) rankings were notably affected by the “college readiness” metric. This impact stems from the unique circumstance where half of UCTECH’s senior students and all APA senior students participate in a program that sends them to Kean University during their senior year. Consequently, they do not enroll in Advanced Placement courses during this period, which does not align with the criteria used by US News and World Report for evaluating “college readiness.” However, it is important to recognize these students for their exceptional achievements. They successfully navigate the demanding dual roles of being high school seniors and college freshmen simultaneously while undertaking credit-bearing, college-level coursework on a college campus and earning well-over 3.5 combined GPA each year. Arguably, they could be considered more “college ready” than any other school on campus.
“This recognition is a great source of pride for the Board of Education. It is the result of the cooperative efforts, dedication and hard work of all of our administrators, staff, and especially our teachers and students,” said Board President, Mrs. Jean Perkins. “The many programs and courses of study offer a most enriching and varied experience. We particularly appreciate the ongoing strong support of the Board of County Commissioners as we continue to work together to provide the best for students in Union County. We look forward to continued excellence.”
For more information on the Union County Vocational-Technical Schools, please visit https://www.ucvts.org/.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners are proud to announce the first Union County WORKS Business Summit on September 12, 2023 at 10:00 a.m., at Kean University’s Liberty Hall Academic Building, located at 1003 Morris Avenue in Union. As part of Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados’ 2023 Chairman’s theme of “Building a Stronger Union County,” Union County has launched the “Empowering Our Businesses” initiative, aiming to strengthen relationships between our Union County American Job Center and local businesses, providing even greater opportunities for employers and employees alike.
“Hosting this event marks a significant stride in our efforts to build a stronger Union County,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “I take great pride in introducing the first-ever Union County WORKS Business Summit, a testament to our commitment to cultivating the growth of local businesses and further strengthening the bonds between our Union County American Job Center and the business community. Together, we are continuing on a path towards a thriving business environment in Union County, and I encourage all businesses to join us on September 12th, as we work to empower both our businesses and Union County.”
The Union County WORKS Business Summit is designed to empower businesses with valuable insights, expert advice, and unmatched resources. It aims to highlight Union County’s comprehensive list of available services and resources, including Workforce Information and Data Analysis, On-the Job-Training, Employer Support Services, Incumbent Worker Training, Recruitment Assistance, Training Services, and Customized Training. Participating businesses will receive access to up to $10,000 in on-the-job training costs per employee, up to 50% reimbursement for incumbent employee training, and free professional recruitment services.
Businesses can anticipate insights into targeted demographic data, targeted development areas, and strategic approaches for creating a thriving business environment in Union County.
Guests will also be able to listen to expert panelists offer valuable guidance for businesses of all sizes. These panelists include:
Robert Croom – A 19-year employee of Union County, Robert’s journey began within Union County’s public service landscape and soon saw himself supervising the Department of Social Services. In 2022, Robert became Division Director of the Union County American Job Center, where he has shown an unwavering dedication to nurturing mutually beneficial partnerships between businesses and job seekers throughout the county.
Antonio Rivera– Antonio currently serves as the Director of the Union County Workforce Development Board. His commitment to workforce development is evident through his membership in significant commissions and boards, including the Garden State Employment & Training Commission, the New Jersey Department of Labor’s Credential Review Board, and the Port Authority of NY & NJ’s Council on Port Performance, Workforce Development Implementation Team.
Adam Farrah – As president of the Union County Economic Development Corporation, Adam spearheads yearly fundraising efforts through donations, foundation backing, and extended state and federal contracts. Before his role as president, Adam began his tenure in the UCEDC as Director of Financial Programs, and later was appointed Senior Vice President for 22 years, overseeing financial programs as well as government procurement assistance and business development divisions.
Carlos Medina – As an accomplished professional with a background in mapping and engineering, Carlos has significantly expanded revenues and diversified services at Robinson Aerial, Inc., and has also played key roles in the media and as the President and CEO of the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey. Additionally, he co-founded the Hispanic Chamber Fund and serves as a Corporate Board Member of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ, showcasing his diverse and impactful contributions in various fields.
Hilary McCarron– Hilary is the manager of Port Planning & Policy in the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s Port Department. Under her leadership, the workforce committee collaborates with Port businesses and stakeholders to host events that raise awareness about the importance of the Port of NY & NJ and the range of well-paying local jobs it offers in Union, Essex, Hudson, Richmond, and Kings counties.
Mimi Nkwepo – In her role as National Director/Head of Talent Acquisition Diversity & Inclusion at Coach USA, Dr. Nkwepo oversees all recruiting activities and works to ensure that the company attracts and hires employees of the highest caliber that fit within Coach USA’s unique corporate culture. Prior to joining Coach USA, she held positions of increasing responsibilities at companies such as Atrium Staffing, Johnson & Johnson, Merck KGA, and PSEG.
Anyone interested in registering should visit www.ucnj.org/works23 to secure their spot. For more information, please contact Carolina Marin by phone at 908-380-6237 or via email at astrid.marin@ucnj.org.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Newark Bait Fly Casting Club, invites residents of Union County to participate in the Fall Fishing Derby for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs on Saturday, September 9th, at Lower Echo Lake Park in Mountainside.
“This event is the perfect way to spend some time outdoors and enjoy the end of summer,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Hosting a fishing derby for our residents with special needs and disabilities, alongside their families, is an initiative that reflects our commitment to providing quality programming and creating a truly inclusive community and county for all segments of our population. It is always a great time, so I hope to see many of our community there!”
The Fall Fishing Derby will begin at 10:00am. Participants of all ages are encouraged to bring their own poles, chairs and fishing gear, or they can use the equipment provided.
Admission to the Fall Fishing Derby is free of charge; however, we kindly request attendees to register in advance. To register, please visit www.ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.
This event is held in partnership with the Newark Bait Fly Casting Club, the oldest scientific angling and casting club in the east. This group of fishermen and fisherwomen unite through a shared commitment to assist veterans, children, and individuals with disabilities through various events held during the year.
The Fall Fishing Derby is hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, under the Division of Individual and Family Support Services of the Union County Department of Human Services. The OPDSN offers recreational programs for people with disabilities year-round for children age 5 through adult across county facilities.
Their goal is to help people with disabilities achieve independent living and full inclusion in all aspects of county life. To find out more about special needs programs hosted by Union County, visit www.ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn/ or call 908-527-4807.
Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying for mosquitoes Wednesday evening, September 6, 2023, between the hours of 5:00PM to 10:00PM (Weather Permitting). Check below for a list of areas to be sprayed. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Union County Office of Mosquito Control at 908-654-9834 or 908-654-9835.
The Union County community invites all residents to honor the lives lost in the September 11th terrorist attacks at Union County’s September 11th Memorial in Echo Lake Park in Mountainside on Monday, September 11th.
“It has been 22 years since America was gripped by heartbreak, tragedy, and fear in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Although time has passed, the legacy of those we lost, including 60 Union County residents and thousands from across our nation, continues to reside deep within our hearts,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Each year, our community comes together in a solemn memorial to honor the exceptional bravery and selflessness of these individuals and I encourage all of our residents to attend this important vigil, as we pledge to never let their memory fade.”
A uniformed Honor Guard will stand watch at the memorial from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Residents are encouraged to bring and light candles in remembrance of those lives lost on September 11th. Candles will also be available at the memorial, courtesy of the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation.
Completed in 2003, this memorial is dedicated to the sixty Union County residents who perished in the 2001 terrorist attacks. The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders worked alongside residents of Cranford, Elizabeth, Kenilworth, Linden, Mountainside, Rahway, Scotch Plains, Summit, Union and Westfield to design this memorial.
Two sections of steel from the World Trade Center are positioned next to each other on a five-sided brick base representing the Pentagon, alongside a sculpture of a hand holding an “Eternal Flame,” memorializing the Armed Service members, emergency responders, and passengers aboard United Flight 93 who lost their lives that day. The memorial is located on a hill at the border of Mountainside and Springfield in Union County’s Echo Lake Park, near the Springfield Avenue entrance.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to award the recipients of the 2023 Hispanic Heritage Awards during the first day of Union County’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebration.
“Seeing Union County’s Hispanic cultures unite to celebrate their achievements is one of my personal highlights of the month,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “It truly showcases the diversity and inclusion we’ve been working to achieve in Union County. Over one-third of our residents are of Hispanic origin, and it’s always great to acknowledge and honor some of the contributions that are being provided through our community members to enhance our community at large.”
The Hispanic Heritage Awards ceremony will begin promptly at 8:00 p.m. on September 15th at the Union County Performing Arts Center, with a concert by the Spanish Harlem Orchestra immediately to follow. Recipients of these awards include Alberto Goncalves, CEO and founder of Life Assets Capital, Olga Hugelmeyer, Superintendent of Schools of Elizabeth Public Schools, and the Hispanic Law Enforcement Association of Union County. Free limited tickets are available at www.ucnj.org/hhm.
“As the first Hispanic woman elected to the Board of County Commissioners, this award ceremony is especially important to me,” said Commissioner Lourdes Leon. “We are proud to have these individuals represent the very best of Union County.”
Recipient of the Business Leadership Award, Alberto Goncalves, has spent his professional journey dedicated to endeavors that bring about lasting improvements in urban neighborhoods across New Jersey. As CEO and founder of Life Assets Capital, a leader in the real estate development industry, he has been influential in generating employment opportunities and fostering growth for the community.
Olga Hugelmeyer, recipient of the Angel Estrada Community Leadership Award, is an experienced educator who has been involved in the Elizabeth Public School System for over 29 years. She is also on the Governing Board of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, which represents more than 470 colleges and universities committed to Hispanic higher education success.
Recipient of the Public Safety Award, the Hispanic Law Enforcement Association of Union County, takes great pride in endorsing various community civic initiatives, offering scholarships to high school students, providing exam tutorials, and facilitating social events. The HLEAUC understands the complexity individuals of Hispanic heritage who aspire to enter the field of criminal justice face, which is why their scholarship committee is an integral part of their mission.
Union County’s Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15th to October 14th. To view a full list of events, please visit www.ucnj.org/hhm.
Please be advised, Union County Mosquito Control will be spraying for mosquitoes Thursday evening, August 31, 2023, between the hours of 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM (Weather Permitting). Check below for a list of areas to be sprayed. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Union County Office of Mosquito Control at 908-654-9834 or 908-654-9835.
Elizabeth – Clarkson Av., Elizabeth/Essex Sewage Authority,
Hillside – Cornell Pl., Harvard Ave., Orchard Ter., Union Ave.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that applications for the 2024 Union County HEART Grant program are now available for Union County non-profit organizations, individual artists and scholars. Projects related to local history, the arts and humanities are eligible for consideration for funding in the HEART Grant funding program.
“We are excited to announce the opening of applications for the 2024 Union County HEART Grant program. These grants are a testament to our commitment to preserving our local history, fostering the arts, and promoting the humanities in Union County,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “We invite our non-profit organizations, individual artists, and scholars to seize this opportunity and bring their creative visions to life. Together, we can continue to enrich our community and strengthen the cultural fabric that makes Union County so special.”
The HEART (History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) program serves as a catalyst for Union County’s non-profit organizations, artists and scholars, enhancing their ability to connect residents with programs and activities.
Along with civic groups and cultural organizations, past HEART Grant recipients have included individual poets, writers, historians, painters, photographers, musicians, dancers and more. Organizations can request a grant of up to $3,000, with a 25% cash match required for any amount over $1,000. Individuals can request up to $1,000, with no cash match required.
All projects funded under the HEART Grant Program must directly benefit Union County residents and increase appreciation for Union County history, the arts and humanities, demonstrating that cultural assets are a vital part of community life, education and well-being, economic development and cultural heritage tourism.
“In 1998, we established the HEART Grant program with the aim of nurturing a vibrant arts and cultural landscape in Union County,” said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Cultural & Heritage Advisory Board. “Over the years, this initiative has garnered tremendous enthusiasm. We eagerly anticipate yet another season of dynamic programming that will bring enlightening, educational, and entertaining experiences to thousands of our residents.”
Activities must take place in 2024 between January 1st and December 31st to be considered for funding. Applicants must be Union County residents or Union County based non-profit organizations with programs taking place in Union County. The online application deadline for first-time applicants is Wednesday, October 11, 2023. The full application must be completed by Wednesday, October 18, 2023. Hard copies are no longer being accepted.
The HEART Grant program is administered by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs in the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation. To receive the 2024 HEART Grant guidelines, visit ucnj.org/ cultural or email HEARTGrant@ucnj.org. For more information of all Cultural and Heritage Affairs programs call 908-558-2565 (NJ Relay users dial 711).
